IL - Child sex abuse reform bill becomes law

IL - Child sex abuse reform bill becomes law

For immediate release: Friday, Aug. 23

Statement by Statement by Barbara Blaine of Chicago, president of SNAP, the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests (312-399-4747, SNAPblaine@gmail.com)

In a huge victory for innocent kids and a huge defeat for child molesters, Illinois’ governor has signed a bill permanently lifting the civil statute of limitations on child sex crimes (SB 1399, sponsored by Sen. Link and others).

This measure will stop more sex offenders. It enables child sex abuse victims to expose dangerous predators in court. It enables employers and neighbors and even relatives to learn about and protect themselves from child molesters who otherwise would have stayed “under the radar.”

Illinois kids are safer now because more child molesters will face justice.

Kids are safest when predators are jailed. But that can’t always happen. So the next best option is to expose predators. Now, thankfully, Illinois lawmakers are letting more crime victims do this.

Recently, Governor Pat Quinn has also signed HB 1063 which eliminates the criminal statute of limitations on child sex crimes. This too is a huge step forward for the safety of kids.

Every parent in the state should be grateful to the hard-working individuals at the Illinois Coalition Against Sexual Assault. Their dedication is largely what made this progress possible. We in SNAP deeply appreciate their dedication and support.

Awesome news! Congratulation to all who were involved, in this becoming a reality. Kudos to the lawmakers and Governor. Let’s go New Jersey???

David and Judy Lorenz commented
2013-08-23 11:44:26 -0500

Way to Go!!!! Thanks to the governor and all the legislators who supported this.

Bob Schwiderski commented
2013-08-23 10:24:20 -0500

Huge, huge, huge — Standing Ovation ! Applause !

“Notwithstanding any other provision of law, an action for damages based on childhood sexual abuse may be commenced at any time on or after the effective date of this amendatory Act of the 98th General Assembly of the State of Illinois.” Bob Schwiderski